Longtime leader to drive SPB’s diverse restaurant portfolio
Nashville, TN (Restaurant News Release) SPB Hospitality today announced the appointment of G.J. Hart as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Hart succeeds Josh Kern, who is stepping down to take on another executive role in the restaurant industry. Kern will remain with the company through mid-October.
Hart, a seasoned leader in the hospitality sector, brings decades of experience guiding and scaling restaurant brands. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and previously held CEO roles at Torchy’s Tacos, California Pizza Kitchen, and Texas Roadhouse. Widely recognized across the industry for driving operational excellence, brand growth, and fostering strong company cultures, Hart also serves as an operating partner for Fortress Investment Group and will continue to serve as Chairman and CEO of Hart to Hart Global Advisors.
“G.J. is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the restaurant business and a strong track record of success. His experience and reputation will be important as we continue our work to position SPB Hospitality for continued growth,” said Morgan McClure, SPB Hospitality board member and Managing Director at Fortress Investment Group. “We are grateful to Josh for his leadership over the past several years and wish him the very best as he takes on his next opportunity in the industry.”
“I am honored to join SPB Hospitality at such an important time,” said Hart. “This is a company with a diverse and iconic portfolio of brands, a talented team, and a strong foundation. I look forward to working closely with the board, leadership team, and operators to build on the momentum already in place and lead SPB into its next chapter.”
SPB Hospitality’s portfolio includes a diverse range of restaurant concepts across casual, polished casual, and fine dining. The company remains focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening its brands, and driving long-term growth.
SPB Hospitality is majority owned by funds managed by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group.
About SPB Hospitality
SPB Hospitality operates a diverse portfolio of full-service dining restaurants across 25 states. Its collection of brands includes J. Alexander’s, Stoney River Steakhouse & Grill, Chef Jose Garces’ Amada and Village Whiskey, and Logan’s Roadhouse. Visit SPBHospitality.com to learn more.
About Fortress Investment Group LLC
Fortress Investment Group LLC is a leading, highly diversified global investment manager. Founded in 1998, Fortress manages $53 billion of assets under management as of June 30, 2025, on behalf of over 2,000 institutional clients and private investors worldwide across a range of credit and real estate, private equity and permanent capital investment strategies. AUM refers to assets Fortress manages, including capital that Fortress has the right to call from investors, or investors are otherwise required to contribute, pursuant to their capital commitments to various funds or managed accounts. To learn more, visit Fortress.com.
Contact:
Betsy DeMik
Champion
214-500-1132
bdemik@championmgt.com